What is productivity?
Definition of Productivity
What does it mean to be productive?
Dictionaries offer definitions that are, at best, uninspiring. For instance, Merriam-Webster defines it simply as "the quality or state of being productive."
After interviewing and surveying thousands of people, one thing became clear to me: there is no single, universal definition of productivity. A common response was : 'I feel productive when I can stick to my plan and finish all my tasks for the day.'
You finished all your tasks for the day. Great! But…
Were they truly your top priorities?
Did they get you closer to your goals?
Did you close your laptop feeling deeply satisfied—or just relieved?
Looking Closer: What Else Defines Productivity?
Now, consider the opposite scenario. You had a plan, but you didn’t get to everything on your list. Does that mean your day was wasted? Not necessarily. Instead, ask yourself:
Did urgent, important matters take precedence?
Did you work on the most essential tasks despite not being in ideal conditions?
Did you overestimate what you could accomplish?
These scenarios don't mean you were unproductive.
Productivity: A Personal Journey
Productivity is a deeply personal journey that demands a high degree of self-awareness. We are the primary judges of our own progress, equipped with the unique insight into our goals and limitations. This internal evaluation isn’t about adhering to rigid, external benchmarks, but about aligning our actions with our intrinsic values. Our personal assessment, rooted in self-reflection, provides the most authentic measure of our productivity. It's about recognizing that our 'best' is a variable, not a constant.
While analyzing all the data provided by those I interviewed and surveyed, a fundamental truth emerged – productivity is intimately connected to positive emotions.
It's ultimately a feeling of satisfaction with how we've used our time, and the consequent feelings of accomplishment, calm, peace.
So I came up with a definition that better defines the conditions that will trigger that feeling, while fixing the misconceptions.
Productivity is focusing on the most important things that you are able to work on - at that specific moment.
In short, it's about making the best out of your day, recognising that your "best" can vary.
Productivity’s Breakdown
As previously said, in my opinion productivity is about "focusing on the most important things that you are able to work on, at that specific moment."
Let's break down what that means:
"Focusing on": Motion vs. Action
While planning is vital, it's easy to fall into the trap of 'false productivity' – spending hours thinking, structuring, and organizing without actually executing. True productivity involves taking action, even if imperfectly. The satisfaction and sense of progress that come from doing outweigh the illusion of progress created by overthinking.
"The Most Important Things": Goals & Prioritization
Our goals are our compass for determining what is 'most important.' Only by understanding how tasks contribute to our larger objectives can we prioritize effectively. However, remember that prioritization is an ongoing process. Unforeseen, urgent matters might demand your attention, temporarily shifting even well-laid plans.
"That You Are Able to Work On": Limitations & Adaptability
We must acknowledge both external and internal limitations that impact our capacity to work. Sometimes we can’t operate on a specific task because we lack information or are blocked by others. Similarly, our energy levels, mood, and mental state dramatically affect our ability to tackle specific tasks. Trying to force productivity when we're not in the right headspace can be both frustrating and counterproductive, leading to decreased motivation.
"At That Specific Moment" - Fluctuation is Normal
It's a common mistake to use our most productive day as the benchmark for all other days. In reality, productivity fluctuates daily, weekly, and monthly. It's influenced by internal factors and external circumstances, which change day by day. Setting realistic expectations based on your current state and potential output is essential for achieving that feeling of satisfaction that defines true productivity.